With the long, cold winters that Southern Maine typically endures, you may end up getting a heating oil delivery late in the season to get you through those first weeks of “spring”—but not go through your whole tank. Of course, we’re often still using heat long after our neighbors to the south. But what about that oil left in your tank when our beautiful Maine summer season finally arrives? Can it spoil, or “go bad”?
The short answer is not likely. Heating oil should remain in perfect, usable condition for approximately 18 to 24 months. But if you find yourself with less than half a tank at the end of the winter, here are three reasons it’s still a smart move to fill up or top-off.
Of course, there are other factors that can affect your heating oil. If your oil storage tank is very old, it may already be corroded inside. The oil can be contaminated by rust, water, dirt and debris, all of which can cause problems.
Not sure if your heating oil is bad? You should be able to tell by the smell. If bacteria have managed to grow in your tank and caused sludge to form, then this sludge should create a distinctly foul odor. Simply remove the fill cap from the top of your heating oil tank to determine if the oil smells. And of course, you can always call us if you aren’t 100% sure.
No matter when you need a fill-up, you can trust PitStop Propane and Fuels to be there for you. Get in touch with us today and begin enjoying the benefits of being a PitStop customer!